Former cabinet minister and Miramichi area MLA Jake Stewart has apologized to the Aboriginal community for having been victims of systemic racism.
Speaking to First Nations people on Friday, Stewart says he speaks for himself and not the province.
“I am sorry for my inability to deliver on the historic change to which you are entitled. I am sorry for the many ways in which you have been the victims of systemic racism from government institutions over decades and centuries, particularly in the justice system. We have let you down. I have let you down.”
When the legislature resumes next month, Stewart says he will be tabling a petition to urge the province to conduct an inquiry into the systemic marginalization of First Nations people.
Premier Blaine Higgs has not called a provincial inquiry and has said it would be better to look back at previous inquiries held across the country.
Aboriginal chiefs in the province had a good relationship with Stewart as the former minister of aboriginal affairs.
He was shuffled out of cabinet this week and Arlene Dunn was appointed to that portfolio.
Stewart wished her nothing but the best and has offered to help her in any way that he can.
